As the new academic year began at the Vanderbijlpark Campus of the North-West University (NWU), some returning students faced a harsh reality: without money to register, their dreams of continuing their education were at risk. For months, these students had juggled part-time jobs, family responsibilities and academic pressure – only to be met with the devastating possibility of being left behind.

Enter Makhotso Mosikidi, a senior administrative officer at Student Life. As a mother of two, juggling three jobs while pursuing her MBA, Makhotso knows what it means to persevere against the odds.

Driven by compassion and a desire to give back, she conceived the NWU Victory Run: Celebrating Real-Life Superheroes, a 5 km fun run and appreciation festival held in October last year. Her mission was simple yet powerful: honour those who quietly make a difference in their communities while raising funds to help students in need.

“The Victory Run is about more than running,” Makhotso explains. “It is about giving selflessly, about helping students who might otherwise have to pause their dreams. When you see a young person’s face light up because they can finally register and continue their education, it reminds you why every act of kindness matters. That joy, that hope – that is what drives me.”

With support from NWU Student Life and her church community, last year’s Victory Run raised over R150 000. This week, those funds were used to help more than 10 students pay their registration fees, ensuring that financial struggles would not rob them of their future.

“I was in their shoes not so long ago. I know what it feels like to work hard, dream big and still face obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. Seeing students register this week after months of worry is a feeling that cannot be described. Every smile, every relieved sigh, every student stepping confidently into the new academic year reminds me that even small acts of kindness can change lives. It is not just about the registration fees – it is about hope, dignity, and showing these students that someone believes in them. This is why I do what I do.”

For the students who received assistance, the impact was immediate and profound. Many had exhausted every option, juggling part-time work and borrowing from friends or family, unsure if they could continue their studies. Thanks to last year’s Victory Run, they can now register and begin the academic year with renewed hope.

“I honestly thought I would not be able to register this week,” one student shared. “Thanks to the Victory Run, I can continue my studies. I feel like someone believes in me.”

Chris Williams, director for student life, praised the initiative. “Makhotso’s selflessness and dedication are extraordinary. Through the Victory Run, she ensured that financial hardship would not define a student’s future. This week, students could register because of her vision and commitment. It is a perfect example of how compassion, community, and action can transform lives. Her dedication is a reminder that even small acts – like running, volunteering, or giving – can ripple across an entire community and change lives.”

Makhotso’s vision goes beyond fundraising. She hopes to expand the Victory Run each year, supporting more students and creating a culture in which no student is left behind due to a lack of funds.

Makhotso Mosikidi